Details

Our experts in the Japan Woodworker Product Department were asked to recommend a waterstone set for use in a workshop or kitchen using as the criteria versatility, ease of use and value. This three-piece starter set met the criteria. Because each Japanese toolmaker uses his own forged steel, there are many variables to think about when selecting sharpening stones. You can be sure these waterstones will keep your tools razor-sharp.

Naniwa 220-Grit Super Ceramic Stone. Designed to allow rapid sharpening with minimal surface wear, this stone is formulated to have the feel of a natural stone. Its size is a generous 8 1/4" x 2 3/4" x 3/4", and it comes affixed to a heavy-duty plastic base. (#156621 sold separately)

Shapton 2000-Grit Ceramic Waterstone. This would be your choice if you could only buy one sharpening stone. Its medium-fine grit allows it to shine with a multitude of implements. The stone is comprised of a 5mm-thick glass backing plate fused to a 5mm-thick stone and measures 2 3/4" wide x 8 1/4" long. (#159158 sold separately)

Takenoko 8000-Grit Polishing Stone. The Takenoko stone is made from synthetic 8000-grit abrasive and natural clays. Use of natural clay creates a surface with outstanding polishing characteristics, and this manufacturing process produces a stone with many of the desirable traits of Awase Toishi (natural finish stones). Our Takenoko Stone will give a superior polish in less time than 8000-grit stones from other manufacturers. However, for best results use a Nagura Stone to produce the “mud” that allows the Takenoko Stone to create a superior mirror polishing effect. Takenoko’s size: 8-3/8" x 2-7/8" x 1". (#156658 sold separately)